The green circle
Water amid forest.
Ethan Crowley, of Ethan Crowley Productions — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Chamnanmuon — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jensre — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Barang — CC BY-SA 3.0
Yeak Laom is a nearly circular volcanic crater lake in Ratanakiri Province, close to Banlung town in north-eastern Cambodia. Dense forest surrounds it, leaving its blue-green water calm and shaded, and it is the area's best-known place for a swim and a rest. In 2012 it was named among the 15 most beautiful crater lakes in the world. The lake formed from a volcanic eruption about 700,000 years ago, which explains its almost perfect circle. It is 800 m across and about 50 m deep. Tampuan folklore says a giant dug a pit in the earth and created it. It lies in a protected area and has a place in local tales. A path circles the lake among the trees, short enough for an unhurried walk, and timber platforms over the water serve as jumping-off points for swimmers. From above the lake looks like a dark green eye in the forest, as aerial photographs show. At dawn and sunset the water stills and mirrors trees and clouds. It is about 3 km in a straight line from Banlung, and Wikipedia gives about 5 km, so go by bicycle or tuk-tuk. Wear modest swimwear out of respect for local people, leave no rubbish and mind the depth, as the shore drops quickly. Morning or late in the day is best, and holidays bring more visitors.
Water amid forest.
An easy way into the water.
A quiet walk around the lake.
South of Banlung town, Ratanakiri Province, north-eastern Cambodia
Yes, it is a main activity, but the shore drops quickly, so mind the depth.
From a volcanic eruption about 700,000 years ago, which explains its nearly round shape.